After a battle with P.L.S., Candy, 73, died on April 8, 2019 at the Good Shepherd Hospice House. She received her MA in Sociology and PhD in Family Social Science from the University of Minnesota. She came to K-State in 1974 and served as a faculty member in the CFT program for 34 years. From 1990 to 2006, she was the Vera Mowrey McAninch Endowed Professor of FSHS. Candy also served as the MFT program director from 1982 – 1994. She was a long time member of AAMFT and served on the Board of Directors from 1985 to 1988, served on the elections committee from 1987 to 1990, and the Ethics Committee from 1984 – 1987. She also was a long time member of KAMFT, served on Board of Directors, was Vice President, and Editor of the Newsletter. She also was a 37-year member of NCFR. She served as chair of more than 20 doctoral dissertations and many master’s committees. Dr. Russell was co-developer (along with David Olson and Douglas Sprenkle) of the Circumplex Model of Marital and Family Systems, which continues to inform research and practice in family therapy and family studies.
When word got out about her death, we have been overwhelmed with the outpouring of love and support received from former students and friends. Nancy O’Conner, former CFT clinic director, said, “It was an honor to study under her and a privilege to then work beside her. . . We have all been blessed to have had her in our lives.” Patricia Barros, who was an international PhD student at KSU and is currently the Clinic Director at UMD, was a student in Candy’s last MFT class and said , “She taught me about presence and warmth…without asking, she naturally became a sweet presence in my life…She became family in a life of an immigrant…” Sandra Stith, former CFT program director, said, “Candy taught me so much and was a mentor and friend to me for more than 30 years. Her kindness and gentleness, along with her clarity and good advice, made such a difference in my life. Candy always wanted the best for everyone. She lived her life with grace and commitment and did the same at the end of her life”.
A celebration of her life was held April 13. Donations can be made in Candy Russell’s name to the KSU Couple and Family Therapy Excellence Fund, the ALS Association or Good Shepherd Hospice.
Additional details are available at: http://www.ymlfuneralhome.com/obituary/6260
